Judy Burch
Dec. 7, 1944 – Oct. 9, 2020

With much sadness, we announce the passing of Judy, a devoted mom, grandma, sister, aunt and beloved friend to many. She passed away peacefully in her home with her loving family by her side.

Judy was born and raised in Vancouver where she completed Psychiatric Nurses Training with honours at Riverview Hospital in 1965. She spent more than 10 years as a Psychiatric nurse at Woodlands and McDonald Lodge. This was the beginning of her professional career involving care and compassion for others.

With her previous husband, Ronald Burch (now deceased), her daughter and son, she moved to SSI in 1981. She quickly made strong friendships in the community and began her career as a Special Education Teacher with School District #64. Judy spent time as a mental health nurse with SSI Community Services in 1992, while working with the School District as a paraprofessional. She valued her position in Special Education, which involved more than 20 years spent with children. Judy completed her working career providing support and services in the community working with Nexgen Hearing.

Judy was an avid runner in her day, while best known for her contagious smile, her ability to make anyone feel comfortable in her presence, her compassion, and always with a sense of humor, this lasting through the challenging times. She was a leader, a mentor, a teacher and a genuine friend to all that knew her.

Judy’s most significant contribution to the community was her volunteer time spent with Search and Rescue. She devoted 30 years with SAR building strong and lasting friendships while gaining much respect by members and affiliated teams. Judy was devoted to time spent with the Hug a Tree program in the schools and Adventure Smart, in addition valued for her time devoted to tracking and as a team leader. Time spent with SAR was a very important time in her life and she shared her experience often with family and friends.

Although Judy’s son Ryan passed away in 2013 her feelings of love and admiration for her son was always present. She leaves behind her loving family, daughter Suzanne (Dan), grandsons Austin and Colton, daughter-in-law Chelsea, grandchildren Isaac, Garrett, Mackenzie and Heidi, sister Debbie (Ray), nieces Melanie (Dean) and Leana, nephew Dustin (Stephanie).

Special thanks to Dr. Kalf, Dr. Brooks, Palliative Care, Home Support, Salt Spring Pharmacy, Red Cross and to all those who offered your support which allowed Judy to be in her home with family and friends. We cannot thank you all enough.

Due to the current situation, a small internment will take place. Her place of rest will soon to be announced for those wanting to pay individual respect.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Salt Spring Search & Rescue, BC Cancer Foundation or BCSPCA.